Book Spotlight : The Elements of Murder
by Erin Gow on 2016-11-16T09:00:00-05:00 | 0 Comments
Looking for an overview of chemicals that can kill a person, preserve wine, or maybe cure your hangover? Jill Sadowski, a Library Assistant at the Law Library, reviews John Emsley's book about the science of poison.
There’s so much out there that will kill you. The Elements of Murder by John Emsley takes us on a historical journey through the chemicals that have been used time and time again to kill. The book is a medicine cabinet full of information; showcasing the wonders of mercury, thallium, barium, and more. Emsley explores the use of chemicals in murder, war, daily life, and medicine. Lead used to be used to preserve wine! Antimony was used as a hangover cure!
The text navigates a complex landscape of scientific information with ease, deeply engaging the reader in the social and cultural (mis)uses of dozens of chemicals. This book is the who’s who of royal death and destruction! It’s the dictionary of historical mishaps and medical murder! All of Emsley’s books are engaging explorations into applicable science and this book does not disappoint. I sped right through it, soaking up the delicate combination of terror and chemistry. Wondering if enough copper will kill you? Curious what the arsenic in your wallpaper will do to you? Pick up this fun book to explore the world of poison!
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